Slash high blood pressure…with a milkshake?!

from the Refreshing Delicious Chocolate MilkOmniVista Health Learning News Desk

Whey protein shakes are becoming increasingly popular. And there has been some impressive research on the health benefits of whey.

For instance, take a look at the results of this recent study…

Researchers from Florida State University assigned 33 obese and sedentary young women to three different groups for four weeks. One group took 30 grams of casein daily. Another took 30 grams of whey daily. And a third served as control.

All the women received exercise training three times a week. But by the end of the study, there was one incredible difference in the results.

The groups supplementing with milk proteins (casein and whey) enjoyed significant improvements in blood pressure and arterial stiffness. Researchers think it was due to a boost in nitric oxide—the compound responsible for relaxing and widening blood vessels.

Whatever the cause, that’s a pretty major benefit right there. Lifesaving, really. And it didn’t take much to achieve. These results came from roughly the same dose you’ll find in your average protein shake, in fact.

This study looked at both whey and casein. But whey is less likely to trigger allergic reactions in milk-sensitive people.

But buyer beware: Choose a whey protein shake mix carefully. Many of them contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, which can cancel out any benefits completely.

A good, quality whey protein shake shouldn’t contain more than 8 grams total of carbohydrates per serving. Mix it up with plain water, or add some ice and mix it in a blender for a decadent, yet healthy “milkshake.”

SOURCE:

“Effects of Milk Proteins and Combined Exercise Training on Aortic Hemodynamics and Arterial Stiffness in Young Obese Women With High Blood Pressure.” Am J Hypertens 2014; 27(3): 338-344.